12-06-15 New and Old Celebrated at OSDA Christmas Party

New and Old Celebrated at OSDA Christmas Party 12-06-15

The Falmouth Preservation Alliance’s first Heritage Map was unveiled, and retiring Fire Rescue Chief Mark Sullivan was honored at the Old Stone Dock Association’s Annual Christmas Party held at the ShoreWay Acres Inn on Sunday afternoon.

The new Heritage Maps will feature the historic districts in Falmouth according to the President of the Alliance, Barbara Weyand. “The Old Stone Dock neighborhood and the Village Green were the first villages established as Suckanessett in 1689. It was natural to use this area as the first in the series of historic maps,” according to Mrs. Weyand.

OSDA member Karen Rinaldo was the artist who designed and executed the map. “The unique thing about the map is that it illustrates existing historical houses and properties, as well as buildings that are no longer there, probably due to hurricanes, destruction, or decay,” said Ms. Rinaldo. All members present were given a copy of the map. Several members also ordered one of the 100 limited edition prints of the poster as a piece of art for household decoration. The Association donated a print that will hang among Ms. Rinaldo’s other artworks in Town Hall.

Among the town leaders in attendance, Fire Rescue Chief Mark Sullivan was recognized for his many contributions to the community and the Old Stone Dock Association in particular. Chief Sullivan was instrumental in the two presentations the OSDA has offered the public about Hurricane Carol and the impact of Storm Surge. The chief was presented with kind words and an OSDA sweatshirt in appreciation. Town Manager Julian Suso also praised Chief Sullivan’s 30-year career where he served in many capacities from firefighter, to EMT, though the ranks, and up to chief. Chief Sullivan’s official date for retirement in January 15, 2016.

Mr. Suso also addressed some of the challenges and successes of a very busy year. He referenced the value and efficiency of the current projects in sewering the Little Pond neighborhood, and building the water filtration infrastructure for the benefit of all the town. Members applauded Mr. Suso for his stewardship and his personal involvement in neighborhood activities.

Deputy DPW Director Peter McConarty was congratulated on his recent promotion and thanked for his interest in both safety and aesthetics. “The shoreline creates unique challenges and we try to keep up with the demands of Mother Nature,” said Mr. McConarty. “The corner of Shore Street and Surf Drive is being analyzed for possible sidewalks and curbing to improve pedestrian safety and traffic flow.” He also cited Town Meeting’s approval of vehicles and apparatus as a major benefit for the town. The new street sweeper was in evidence in the hours before the parade down Main Street.

Beach Superintendent Don Hoffer echoed Mr. McConarty’s comments about the need for safety in beach areas and thanked the OSDA for providing the “silent policemen” used in crosswalks to remind drivers that pedestrians have the right of way. He also praised the contributions of the members to beautify both the exterior and interior of the Ellen T. Mitchell Bathhouse.

Police Chief Ed Dunne thanked the members for their active involvement in neighborhood watch. He also pointed with pride to his patrolmen who enjoy their community relationships, and noted the overwhelming support of staff and citizens in the “Stuff a Cruiser” campaign to provide toys for local children. OSDA President Kevin Doyle noted that Chief Dunne’s dedication and popularity was demonstrated during this summer’s Police Night Out held behind the police station. “Chief Dunne spent so much time in the dunk tank he could have had swimming lessons,” quipped Mr. Doyle.

The Old Stone Dock Association enjoys two social events annually. The Christmas Party is held in the festively decorated ShoreWay Acres Inn. Hosts Dorie and Greg Ketterer are members of the Association and provide a well-rounded buffet in a warm holiday setting. Artist Kathy Hall celebrated her birthday by face-painting the children and the young-at-heart. Many sported candy canes and snowflakes to add to the festivities. Several Main Street merchants donated gifts for door prizes to complement Mrs. Ketterer’s “Shop Falmouth First” display.

In the summer, Don and Joyce Filiault treat fellow members to their hospitality at the Beach Breeze Inn, also on Shore Street. Barnstable County Sheriff James Cummings, father of Falmouth Police Sergeant James Cummings, Jr., provides tents for a delightful outdoor afternoon. The Charlie Jamieson Band provides constant entertainment at both events.

Membership in the Old Stone Dock Association is open to any resident who is interested in the well-being of the Surf Drive Beach and Bathhouse, or preserving the history of the Old Stone Dock itself. The dock has stood for 198 years and will be celebrated during its bicentennial year in 2017. The dock was the center of commerce in Falmouth for 100 years before the Inner Harbor was dredged in 1908. More information about the Association is available at www.oldstonedock.com.